Beginning of the cyclone season
November marks not only the beginning of summer in Mauritius but also that of the cyclone season. The Mauritius Meteorological Services recently unveiled its forecast for the 2021-2022 summer, which should end on May 15. Some 11 possible storms are estimated, 5 of which could become tropical cyclones. Torrential rain is expected from the beginning of December across the island. Between January and March 2022, we should also expect extreme weather conditions that may bring heavy downpours and flooding in certain places. In recent years, the population has also been surprised by phenomena such as “flash floods” and “mini-tornadoes”. So whether you have just landed in Mauritius or have been here for some time now, expect a hot and humid summer!
Major reservoirs full at over 90%
Summer also brings the fear of dry months and severe droughts. Fortunately, there's nothing to worry about for the moment. According to the Central Water Authority (CWA), most of the island's large reservoirs are over 90% full. For example, Midlands reservoir is currently 98.5% full and Piton du Milieu 95.7% full. Mare Longue is 94.4% full, Bagatelle Dam 94.2% and Mare-aux-Vacoas 91.3%. Other reservoirs across the island are also full above-average: 71.3% for La Nicolière and 74% for La Ferme. During the same period last year, they were 59.9% full.
The Mauritian vaccination certificate recognised in the UK
Here's some good news for people who are looking to travel to the United Kingdom from Mauritius. Travellers inoculated with the Janssen, Covishield / Vaxeveria, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are now exempt from quarantine on arrival in the UK as long as they can produce an international vaccination certificate. The vaccine mix, that is to say, the vaccination certificate showing two of the four recognised vaccines, is also accepted in the United Kingdom. On the other hand, people who have been immunised with Sputnik V, Covaxin and Sinopharm vaccines are still considered “unvaccinated”.
Fear of a new wave of Covid-19
After a long festive weekend, the fear of a new wave of Covid-19 has aroused, especially as many Mauritians are currently extending their holidays. Local authorities are pointing out the carelessness within the population, considering the number of new cases reported earlier this week. Despite the high vaccination rate, nearly a hundred cases are detected daily, with at least ten requiring hospital admission. As a result, the police force is strengthening its crackdown operations. During the two public holidays earlier this week, more than 500 people across the island were fined for failing to wear masks. Keep in mind that failing to wear a mask is a punishable offence with a fixed penalty of Rs 2,000.
The Airport City project will soon be a reality
The Plaine Magnien region should soon receive a facelift with the Airport City project. Taken over by Airport Holdings Ltd, this multi-billion rupee project on a land area of over 500 acres should help transform Mauritius into a travel hub. The island is set to locate itself at crossroads between Africa, Asia, Europe and Australia. The Airport City is expected to be completed in several phases, including a shopping mall, an airport hotel, and many other attractive facilities.
